The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has received formal approval from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government to establish a new medical school. This decision, announced on March 15, 2024, marks a pivotal moment for the city’s healthcare landscape, aiming to enhance medical education and address future healthcare needs.
The establishment of Hong Kong’s third medical school is seen as a crucial step in strengthening the region’s medical framework. HKUST expressed its gratitude to the HKSAR Government for its support and to the Task Group on New Medical School for their rigorous evaluation during the selection process. This initiative will adopt an innovative and interdisciplinary approach to medical education, designed to meet the evolving needs of society.
Commitment to Healthcare Innovation
Prof. Harry Shum, Chairman of the HKUST Council, welcomed the HKSAR Government’s decision, emphasizing the university’s role in fostering healthcare innovation. He stated, “We are profoundly honored to be recognized as a partner in the forward-looking strategy of the HKSAR Government to foster healthcare innovation and develop a robust pipeline of medical talent.”
The new medical school aims to cultivate a generation of medical professionals equipped with clinical excellence and technological expertise. According to Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST, the establishment of this school validates the government’s strategic vision. She noted, “We are grateful for the opportunity to prepare a new generation of clinicians through integrating rigorous clinical training with technological proficiency.”
Both Shum and IP acknowledged the collective efforts of the HKUST community, including the Council Advisory Group, Planning Committee, faculty, and staff. They highlighted the commitment and expertise of all involved in the development of the medical school.
Innovative Interdisciplinary Approach
The new medical school will leverage HKUST’s strengths in data science, artificial intelligence, and robotics, integrating these technologies into clinical training. This approach aims to equip graduates to tackle complex health challenges and promote translational research, taking breakthroughs from the lab to patient care.
The institution plans to foster a world-class learning environment, drawing on its international character to attract diverse talent. By merging science, engineering, and business, the school will prepare ethically grounded and clinically proficient medical professionals capable of driving innovation in global medical technology and clinical practice.
The HKUST leadership is committed to collaborating with the HKSAR Government, the Hong Kong Medical Council, and the Hospital Authority to ensure the success of the new medical school. This initiative is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of healthcare in Hong Kong and beyond, addressing long-term societal needs and cultivating outstanding medical professionals.
